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Teachers often use analogies to introduce unfamiliar or complex concepts. However, several studies have found that their knowledge on how to use them is limited or superficial. Similarly, the integration of technological resources in the teaching-learning processes is not always carried out efficiently, which evidences the need to improve teachers' digital competence. This paper provides a formative sequence on the use of analogies in teaching through mediation of technological resources, implemented in the context of the initial training of secondary education teachers. The results show a positive assessment by the students, a change in their perceptions on the subject and some progress in their classroom proposal designs. The conclusion is that it is necessary to train future teachers to deal with common teaching problems in a reflective, comprehensive and innovative way, which will undoubtedly be one of the challenges of education in the 21st century.

Fluency in other languages has become essential for proper integration and communication with other communities, societies, and cultures. Hence, it is of major importance to understand the factors which impact on English language learning, including the influence of parents on their children's learning during the higher education years, last stage before labor market. To this effect, this descriptive survey study with a sample of 689 students from the University of Seville describes the influence of the parents' socio-educational level and parental encouragement on the university motivational profile of future preschool and primary school teachers, doctors, and computer engineers to learn languages according to their academic goals for a successful socio-occupational integration. For this purpose, a descriptive data analysis of percentages, means, and standard deviations, Kruskall-Wallis tests and Pearson correlations have been carried out. The results show the prevalence of learning goals over the performance goals in their motivation, as well as a notable impact of the socio-educational level of parents on the parental support. In conclusion, parental encouragement, undergraduate degree programme, and the student's expected professional career are key factors in achieving a successful apprenticeship which facilitates their employability.

The aim of this research was to assess students' ability to explain scientific phenomena by means of a POE pedagogical tool. To achieve this aim, we conducted home experiments in a digital environment. In this qualitative and transversal ex-post-facto research, 775 pupils (aged 13-18 years) enrolled in compulsory secondary education from the Canary Islands were recruited. Data were collected using a digital questionnaire (self-designed), which showed acceptable reliability ([alpha] = 0.8). According to the results, multimodal POEs with home experiments within multimedia settings were perceived by the pupils to be a useful tool for teaching science on day-to-day. Students also found the POE activities to be motivating and engaging. Lastly, we present the calculation of POE scores and a method for assessing scientific literacy.

The study analyzes the improvement in generic competences through e-portfolio/PLE platform and didactic planning. The new version of the platform, Digital Folder, contains utilities for students and teachers and some PLE components that help the learning process through e-portfolios. Didactic planning is compared for students from the University of Vic and the University of Barcelona, with a total of 61 participants. A questionnaire has been applied for measuring the use of functions and how much these functions aid in the improvement of the generic competences (reflection, planning and selection of information). The results confirm that the most helpful functions for students are: the Schedule, the Academic tasks, the Teacher's portfolio and Dialogue with the teacher. However, the implication of these functions in the improvement of the competences depends on didactic planning overall for reflection on learning.

The systemic, ecological, family-centered approach (FCA) has been shown to be the most effective approach to follow worldwide. In Spain, however, the expert-centered approach remains in force and determines the actions of professionals. The objective of this study is to present the training needs perceived by professionals in six early intervention (EI) centers in Spain in which a research process was introduced, namely, the FCA. Two focus groups were held. The needs stated by professionals were for more knowledge about the philosophy of the approach: supervision, learning in reference centers, and exchange sessions with families as the most appropriate training methods; the observation of role models; collaboration between professionals and the trainer as effective instructional designs; and organizational aspects such as training within the work day. A discussion of the results is carried out in the context of current literature and the practical implications are explored.

The start of higher vocational education and training is a new stage for students with a challenge between theoretical classes and the new expectations and demands of companies during the internship period. To understand some of the implications of stress on cyberloafing, we can distinguish between stress perceived as an obstacle that can be overcome – challenge stress – or as a threat that can block work performance – obstacle stress – and stress perceived as an obstacle that can be overcome – challenge stress – or as a threat that can block work performance – obstacle stress-. The aim of this research is to find out the relationships between challenge-obstacle stress in Cyberloafing, as well as the moderating effect of Smartphone Addiction and Maladaptive. In this study, the Challenge-Hindrance Stressors, Smartphone addiction scaleshort version (SAS-SV) instrument, the Maladaptive subscale of the Cognitive Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ) and Cyberloafing were applied to 403 upper-level vocational training students from different secondary schools in all provinces of the autonomous community of Andalusia, Spain, distributed throughout the provinces that make up this autonomous community. The findings show that students’ challenge stressors do not increase Cyberloafing, enabling them to cope with the academic demands and work challenges during the theory and internship period. On the contrary, obstacle stressors generate stressful situations that undermine the acquisition of objectives and development of academic competences. In our research we observe that challenge-obstacle stressors have a disparate influence on cyberloafing. Challenge stressors are negatively related to Maladaptive. The same is not true for obstacle stressors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stroke is a highly prevalent disease that can provoke severe disability. We evaluate a predictive model based on the Minimum Basic Data Set (MBDS) compiled by the Spain Health Ministry, obtained for the period 2008–2012 for patients with ischaemic stroke in Spain, to establish the model's validity and to optimise its calibration. The MBDS is the main clinical-administrative database for hospitalisations recorded in Spain, and to our knowledge, no predictive models for stroke mortality have previously been developed using this resource. The main study aim is to perform an external validation and recalibration of the coefficients of this predictive model with respect to a chronologically later cohort. Material and Methods: External validation (testing the model on a different cohort to assess its performance) and recalibration (validation with optimisation of model coefficients) were performed using the MBDS for patients admitted for ischaemic stroke in the period 2016–2018. A cohort study was designed, in which a recalibrated model was obtained by applying the variables of the original model without their coefficients. The variables from the original model were then applied to the subsequent cohort, together with the coefficients from the initial model. The areas under the curve (AUC) of the recalibration and the external validation procedure were compared. Results: The recalibrated model produced an AUC of 0.743 and was composed of the following variables: age (odds ratio, OR:1.073), female sex (OR:1.143), ischaemic heart disease (OR:1.192), hypertension (OR:0.719), atrial fibrillation (OR:1.414), hyperlipidaemia (OR:0.652), heart failure (OR:2.133) and posterior circulation stroke (OR: 0.755). External validation produced an AUC of 0.726. Conclusions: The recalibrated clinical model thus obtained presented moderate-high discriminant ability and was generalisable to predict death for patients with ischaemic stroke. Rigorous external validation slightly decreased the AUC but confirmed the validity of the baseline model for the chronologically later cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Broadly speaking, the teaching of spoken language in Spanish schools has not been approached in a systematic way. Changes in school practices are needed in order to allow all children to become competent speakers and to understand and construct oral texts that are appropriate in different contexts and for different audiences both inside and outside school. Here we describe the construction of EVALOE ("Escala de valoración de la enseñanza de la lengua oral en contexto escolar" [Assessment scale of oral language teaching]), a flexible tool designed to assess the teaching and learning of spoken language in schools. The first part of the tool is an observation scale (for use in the classroom), and the second is a semi-structured interview carried out with the teacher after the observation. The instrument is designed to assess how teachers facilitate the development of spoken language. It also aims to further interdisciplinary collaboration with regard to the introduction of changes in teaching practices in order to promote the development of communication friendly classroom environments. A pilot test and expert review of the tool was carried out. Thirty-nine schools then participated in the field test, which involved 39 professionals (23 speech and language therapists, eight educational psychologists, and eight teachers) and two university students. Eighty observations, 34 in a preschool setting and 46 in primary schools, were carried out. The results suggest that EVALOE is a useful tool for assessing the teaching and learning of spoken language.

Accurate solar radiation nowcasting models are critical for the integration of the increasing solar energy in power systems. This work explored the benefits obtained by the blending of four all-sky-imagers (ASI)-based models, two satellite-images-based models and a data-driven model. Two blending approaches (general and horizon) and two blending models (linear and random forest (RF)) were evaluated. The relative contribution of the different forecasting models in the blended-models-derived benefits was also explored. The study was conducted in Southern Spain; blending models provide one-minute resolution 90 min-ahead GHI and DNI forecasts. The results show that the general approach and the RF blending model present higher performance and provide enhanced forecasts. The improvement in rRMSE values obtained by model blending was up to 30% for GHI (40% for DNI), depending on the forecasting horizon. The greatest improvement was found at lead times between 15 and 30 min, and was negligible beyond 50 min. The results also show that blending models using only the data-driven model and the two satellite-images-based models (one using high resolution images and the other using low resolution images) perform similarly to blending models that used the ASI-based forecasts. Therefore, it was concluded that suitable model blending might prevent the use of expensive (and highly demanding, in terms of maintenance) ASI-based systems for point nowcasting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the accuracy of patient-collected skin lesions, oropharyngeal, and rectal swabs among 50 individuals enrolled in a study of mpox viral dynamics. We found that the performance of self-collected samples was similar to that of physician-collected samples, suggesting that self-sampling is a reliable strategy for diagnosing mpox. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several studies have described potential microRNA (miRNA) biomarkers associated with migraine, but studies are scarcely reproducible primarily due to the heterogeneous variability of participants. Increasing evidence shows that disease-related intrinsic factors together with lifestyle (environmental factors), influence epigenetic mechanisms and in turn, diseases. Hence, the main objective of this exploratory study was to find differentially expressed miRNAs (DE miRNA) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of patients with migraine compared to healthy controls in a well-controlled homogeneous cohort of non-menopausal women. Methods: Patients diagnosed with migraine according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3) and healthy controls without familial history of headache disorders were recruited. All participants completed a very thorough questionnaire and structured-interview in order to control for environmental factors. RNA was extracted from PBMC and a microarray system (GeneChip miRNA 4.1 Array chip, Affymetrix) was used to determine the miRNA profiles between study groups. Principal components analysis and hierarchical clustering analysis were performed to study samples distribution and random forest (RF) algorithms were computed for the classification task. To evaluate the stability of the results and the prediction error rate, a bootstrap (.632 + rule) was run through all the procedure. Finally, a functional enrichment analysis of selected targets was computed through protein–protein interaction networks. Results: After RF classification, three DE miRNA distinguished study groups in a very homogeneous female cohort, controlled by factors such as demographics (age and BMI), life-habits (physical activity, caffeine and alcohol consumptions), comorbidities and clinical features associated to the disease: miR-342-3p, miR-532-3p and miR-758-5p. Sixty-eight target genes were predicted which were linked mainly to enriched ion channels and signaling pathways, neurotransmitter and hormone homeostasis, infectious diseases and circadian entrainment. Conclusions: A 3-miRNA (miR-342-3p, miR-532-3p and miR-758-5p) novel signature has been found differentially expressed between controls and patients with migraine. Enrichment analysis showed that these pathways are closely associated with known migraine pathophysiology, which could lead to the first reliable epigenetic biomarker set. Further studies should be performed to validate these findings in a larger and more heterogeneous sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schools, as in the case of other organizations, face complex challenges due to generational phenomena. In addition to an increasingly aging teaching workforce, schools are becoming more age-diverse, with coexisting multiple generations. Two consequences of this situation are the declining availability of relevant and critical knowledge for schools as teachers retire and the difficulties associated with maintaining professional relationships among teachers of different generations. These challenges have highlighted the significance of understanding the relevance of generations of teachers and identifying ways to build on generational diversity. Specifically, intergenerational collaboration and learning are needed to meet these challenges. Accordingly, this study aims to (1) examine generational diversity among teachers, (2) inquire into their interactions and the learning processes accompanying collaborative experiences in professional development, and (3) explore how these experiences and processes can enhance professional learning and practice. To this end, an exploratory mixed methods research project is conducted, comprising a multiphase design with two exploratory sequential studies (QUAL→quan). The participants are a sample of beginner, veteran, and retired teachers from Spain's publicly funded schools. In the qualitative strands of the study, data collection techniques comprise focus groups and semi-structured in-depth interviews followed by thematic analysis. In the quantitative strands, questionnaires (a multidimensional scale and a survey experiment) are the major data sources, which are subjected to descriptive and inferential statistical (factor and conjoint) analyses. The focus is primarily on the qualitative strands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problems involved in obtaining authorization in favor of organ donation have led us to evaluate the level of knowledge and attitudes of a group of Spanish adolescents (14-16 years) regarding organ donation, transplantation, and brain death. The evaluation was carried out before and after a health education intervention by nursing personnel. Experimental, prospective and quantitative study. The educational intervention was carried out at Las Salinas high school (Laguna de Duero, Spain). We collected 86 preworkshop questionnaires and 88 post-workshop questionnaires. The composition of the groups did not differ significantly in sex (P =.653), age (P =.266), or in the desire to be a donor (P =.099). We found significant postworkshop improvements in knowledge about brain death (P <.001) and which organs can be donated (P <.001), as well as in the total score (18.29 ± 2.45 before vs 21.47 ± 2.70 after) (P <.001). We discovered a vast lack of knowledge about the organs that cannot be transplanted, which included the penis (38.4%), uterus (31.4%), prostate (41.9%), or bladder (37.2%); these beliefs decreased significantly after the intervention (P <.01). The increase in knowledge of the organs that can be donated, including eye (P =.024), lung (P =.025), stomach (P <.001), intestine (P =.001), and skin (P <.001), was also significant. The good results reflected the importance of conducting educational programs taught by health personnel on donation and organ transplantation in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the article "Conference 6. Transformation and contributions in times of pandemic", Enrique GALVÁN LAMET from Plena inclusión España talks about the need to transform centers and support services for people with intellectual disabilities. It is emphasized that the existing support model is considered obsolete and an evolution is required to improve personal outcomes, quality of life, and the rights of these individuals in their community environment. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of personalization, equal access to services, and community participation. Plena inclusión takes on the responsibility of contributing to a new community support system through the VivirCon initiative. [Extracted from the article]

The violence epidemic in Mexico is becoming more widespread. Using a social-ecological framework, the current study sought to understand interpersonal violence among those impoverished communities in Mexico City, Mexico. Participants were recruited from Community Health Centers located within districts that were densely populated, had high rates of poverty and marginalization, and where people experience complex social needs. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients, social workers, and medical doctors (N = 15) who were either receiving or providing services in these centers. Data were analyzed using an inductive, thematic approach. Analysis resulted in three themes: (a) interpersonal violence permeates all settings in which people live and interact; (b) social and cultural factors increase the risk of becoming a perpetrator or victim of interpersonal violence; and (c) interpersonal violence is closely intertwined with mental health. Rapid changes within gender roles and expectations in Mexico, combined with widening income inequality, are shifting dynamics within families that may be inherently linked to interpersonal violence. Our findings support the conceptualization of interpersonal violence at the four levels of the social-ecological framework: individual, relationship, community, and societal. Prevention and interventions for violence reduction must be applied across the four levels simultaneously. Community-level efforts should go toward strengthening existing community health centers and equipping primary care providers with training and resources on the screening and triaging of patients encountering interpersonal violence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Education & Law Review / Revista de Educación y Derecho is the property of Revista de Educacion y Derecho and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The El Salt site (Alcoi, Alicante, Spain) is one of the latest Neanderthal sites in the south-eastern Iberian Peninsula. The disappearance of this human group is controversial and needs detailed studies from different research areas. Taphonomy is essential to establish how representative is a fossil assemblage of the past living organisms that produced it and to interpret the formation process of the fossil site. In the case of El Salt, we have analyzed the micromammal assemblages of Units X and V, which contain fossils of Neanderthals and/or evidence of their activity. In contrast with previous identifications of the little owl (Athene noctua), our detailed taphonomic study shown here allows us to conclude that the main predator involved in the production of the micromammal assemblages was the European eagle owl (Bubo bubo). This is an opportunistic predator whose feeding preferences and behavior reflect the abundance of local micromammalian species, which can therefore provide a representation of past ecosystems near El Salt. The taphonomic information provided by this study also indicates the absence of transport and reworking processes, and reinforces previous paleoecological interpretations, suggesting an increase of aridity at the top of El Salt sequence that coincided with the local disappearance of Neanderthals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Íkala: Revista de Lenguaje y Cultura is the property of Universidad de Antioquia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A comprehensive view of our evolutionary history cannot ignore the ancestral features of our gut microbiota. To provide some glimpse into the past, we searched for human gut microbiome components in ancient DNA from 14 archeological sediments spanning four stratigraphic units of El Salt Middle Paleolithic site (Spain), including layers of unit X, which has yielded well-preserved Neanderthal occupation deposits dating around 50 kya. According to our findings, bacterial genera belonging to families known to be part of the modern human gut microbiome are abundantly represented only across unit X samples, showing that well-known beneficial gut commensals, such as Blautia, Dorea, Roseburia, Ruminococcus, Faecalibacterium and Bifidobacterium already populated the intestinal microbiome of Homo since as far back as the last common ancestor between humans and Neanderthals. Simone Rampelli, Silvia Turroni and colleagues report ancient bacterial profiles of fecal sediments from four stratigraphic units of El Salt Middle Paleolithic site in Spain. The results of this study suggest a core human gut microbiome that could have been shared by Neanderthals and modern humans, and would pre-date the split between these two lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main obstacles to integrating individuals with severe mental disorders into society today is the stigma directed at them. Although breakthroughs in treatment have been made in recent years, many professionals continue to admit that they do not possess enough training to combat this problem. Considering this situation, the present study analyzes the existing stigma among University Education students in three countries with different education systems and cultures, namely Spain, Russia, and Canada. A total of 1,542 students from these three countries participated in the study. ANOVA, MANOVA, and Multigroup Confirmatory Factor Analysis were applied in the data analysis. The results showed that the highest rates of stigma were in Spain and the lowest were in Canada, while Russia displayed intermediate values. This work addresses the relevance of these results, the influence that cultural difference may have on education policies, and the need to implement anti-stigma programs in countries like Spain, which has a relatively high level of social stigma and where these programs are practically not applied at all. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: The cutaneous manifestations of COVID‐19 disease are poorly characterized. Objectives: To describe the cutaneous manifestations of COVID‐19 disease and to relate them to other clinical findings. Methods: We carried out a nationwide case collection survey of images and clinical data. Using a consensus we described five clinical patterns. We later described the association of these patterns with patient demographics, the timing in relation to symptoms of the disease, the severity and the prognosis. Results: The lesions may be classified as acral areas of erythema with vesicles or pustules (pseudo‐chilblain) (19%), other vesicular eruptions (9%), urticarial lesions (19%), maculopapular eruptions (47%) and livedo or necrosis (6%). Vesicular eruptions appear early in the course of the disease (15% before other symptoms). The pseudo‐chilblain pattern frequently appears late in the evolution of the COVID‐19 disease (59% after other symptoms), while the rest tend to appear with other symptoms of COVID‐19. The severity of COVID‐19 shows a gradient from less severe disease in acral lesions to more severe in the latter groups. The results are similar for confirmed and suspected cases, in terms of both clinical and epidemiological findings. Alternative diagnoses are discussed but seem unlikely for the most specific patterns (pseudo‐chilblain and vesicular). Conclusions: We provide a description of the cutaneous manifestations associated with COVID‐19 infection. These may help clinicians approach patients with the disease and recognize cases presenting with few symptoms. What is already known about this topic? Previous descriptions of cutaneous manifestations of COVID‐19 were case reports and mostly lacked illustrations. What does this study add? We describe a large, representative sample of patients with unexplained skin manifestations and a diagnosis of COVID‐19, using a consensus method to define morphological patterns associated with COVID‐19.We describe five clinical patterns associated with different patient demographics, timing and prognosis, and provide illustrations of these patterns to allow for easy recognition. Linked Editorial: Hay et al. Br J Dermatol 2020; 183:3–4. Plain language summary available online [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Asthma exacerbations are important events that affect disease control, but predictive factors for severe or moderate exacerbations are not known. The objective was to study the predictive factors for moderate (ME) and severe (SE) exacerbations in asthma patients receiving outpatient care.Methods: Patients aged > 12 years with asthma were included in the study and followed-up at 4-monthly intervals over a 12-month period. Clinical (severity, level of control, asthma control test [ACT]), atopic, functional, inflammatory, SE and ME parameters were recorded. Univariate analysis was used to compare data from patients presenting at least 1 SE or ME during the follow-up period vs no exacerbations. Statistically significant (p <0.1) factors were then subjected to multiple analysis by binary logistic regression.Results: A total of 330 patients completed the study, most of whom were atopic (76%), women (nearly 70%), with moderate and mild persistent asthma (>80%). Twenty-seven patients (8%) had a SE and 183 had a ME (58.5%) during follow-up. In the case of SEs, the only predictive factor identified in the multiple analysis was previous SE (baseline visit OR 4.218 95% CI 1.53-11.58, 4-month follow-up OR 6.88 95% CI 2.018-23.51) and inhalation technique (OR 3.572 95% CI 1.324-9.638). In the case of MEs, the only predictive factor found in the multiple analysis were previous ME (baseline visit OR 2.90 95% CI 1.54-5.48, 4-month follow- up OR 1.702 95% CI 1.146-2.529).Conclusions: The primary predictive factor for SE or ME is prior SE or ME, respectively. SEs seem to constitute a specific patient "phenotype", in which the sole predictive factor is prior SEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The systemic, ecological, family-centered approach (FCA) has been shown to be the most effective approach to follow worldwide. In Spain, however, the expert-centered approach remains in force and determines the actions of professionals. The objective of this study is to present the training needs perceived by professionals in six early intervention (EI) centers in Spain in which a research process was introduced, namely, the FCA. Two focus groups were held. The needs stated by professionals were for more knowledge about the philosophy of the approach: supervision, learning in reference centers, and exchange sessions with families as the most appropriate training methods; the observation of role models; collaboration between professionals and the trainer as effective instructional designs; and organizational aspects such as training within the work day. A discussion of the results is carried out in the context of current literature and the practical implications are explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Middle Paleolithic lithic and faunal assemblages throughout Eurasia reflect short-term Neanderthal occupations, which suggest high group mobility. However, the timing of these short-term occupations, a key factor to assess group mobility and territorial range, remains unresolved. Anthropogenic combustion structures are prominent in the Middle Paleolithic record and conceal information on the timing and intensity and natural setting of their associated human occupations. This paper examines a concentration of eleven combustion structures from unit Xb of El Salt, a Middle Paleolithic site in Spain through a geoarchaeological approach, in search of temporal, human impact and paleoenvironmental indicators to assess the timing, intensity and natural setting of the associated human occupations. The study was conducted using micromorphology, lipid biomarker analysis and compound specific isotope analysis. Results show in situ hearths built on different diachronic topsoils rich in herbivore excrements and angiosperm plant residues with rare anthropogenic remains. These data are suggestive of low impact, short-term human occupations separated by relatively long periods of time, with possible indicators of seasonality. Results also show an absence of conifer biomarkers in the mentioned topsoils and presence of conifer charcoal among the fuel residues (ash), indicating that fire wood was brought to the site from elsewhere. A microscopic and molecular approach in the study of combustion structures allows us to narrow down the timescale of archaeological analysis and contributes valuable information towards an understanding of Neanderthal group mobility and settlement patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to evaluate the effect of agronomic management and water regime on the number of lesions, levels of insect infestation and microbiological quality of dried figs in Extremadura. Dried fig samples from 18 orchards were collected. The results showed that birds were the primary pests, causing damage to dried figs, followed by insects and fungi. The effects of orchard management were more pronounced under irrigated conditions, with the percentage of undamaged dried figs and the number of insect-free fruits rising significantly with increasing management. Under rainfed conditions, the level of orchard management did not significantly influence damage. In addition, insects were detected in both damaged and undamaged dry figs. Cadra figulilella , Carpophilus hemipterus and Ceratitis capitata were the most common species. Regarding mycobiota, orchard conditions did not significantly affect fungi counts, but they did influence species composition. Aspergillus spp. were predominant under all conditions, followed by Alternaria spp. under irrigated conditions. This work provides relevant information on the different biotic agents that affect dried figs, showing that a higher level of management under irrigated conditions reduces pest incidence. Such knowledge is essential for designing control methods to obtain higher quality fruits. • Damage to dried figs under different agronomic management regimes was evaluated. • Management levels in irrigated orchards influence the percentage of damaged figs. • Bird pecking is the main cause of damage to dried figs. • C. figulilella , C. hemipterus and C. capitata were the main insect pests. • Aspergillus was the main mould linked to damage to dried figs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A preliminary observation of high frequency of male pattern hair loss among admitted COVID‐19 patients and suggest that androgen expression might be a clue to COVID‐19 severity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the research presented in this article has been to identify the competencies acquired by university students in relation to problem-based learning, and to analyze the degree of impact when this methodology is used. The study was based on a survey of 1,007 undergraduate pedagogy students at Universidad de Sevilla. The results indicate a generally positive attitude toward the use of problem-based learning as a method of teaching and learning; it can be classified as pragmatic since its impact is evaluated at an upper intermediate level. It is confirmed that in general, students have acquired the competencies analyzed in the study. Therefore, proposals are made to increase the use of problem-based learning at the university level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Our aim was to describe the electrocardiographic findings of a large sample of Spanish workers from several different employment sectors.Methods and Results: Between May 2008 and November 2010, 13 495 consecutive 12-lead resting electrocardiograms (ECGs) were obtained during health examinations of working adults aged 16-74 years in 5 cities in different regions of Spain. Of those, 13 179 ECGs suitable for interpretation were included in this study. All tracings were classified by the same cardiologist, according to the Minnesota Code criteria. The mean age of the sample was 40 years, and 73.4% were male. Frequencies of complete right bundle branch block, complete left bundle branch block, and left ventricular hypertrophy were 1.1, 0.2, and 3.6%, respectively. Major Q wave abnormalities were observed in 1.7% of the subjects, T wave abnormalities in 0.7%, early repolarization in 2.4%, and other ST segment abnormalities in 0.2%. Atrial fibrillation was present in 0.08% of the workers and atrial flutter in 0.02%. Frequencies of the Wolff-Parkinson-White pattern, Brugada pattern, long QT pattern, and short QT pattern were 0.2, 0.068, 0.038, and 0.015%, respectively.Conclusion: This study shows the electrocardiographic findings of a large sample of Spanish workers from several different employment sectors. The frequencies of many ECG patterns related to an adverse prognosis (left ventricular hypertrophy, complete left bundle branch block, T wave abnormalities, ST segment abnormalities, and atrial fibrillation) were low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ayer: Revista de Historia Contemporánea is the property of Asociacion de Historia Contemporanea and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Health professionals and organizations in developed countries adapt slowly to the increase of ethnically diverse populations attending health care centres. Several studies report that attention to immigrant mental health comes up with barriers in access, diagnosis and therapeutics, threatening equity. This study analyzes differences in exposure to antidepressant drugs between the immigrant and the native population of a Spanish health region.Methods: Cross-sectional study of the dispensation of antidepressant drugs to the population aged 15 years or older attending the public primary health centres of a health region, 232,717 autochthonous and 33,361 immigrants, during 2008. Data were obtained from computerized medical records and pharmaceutical records of medications dispensed in pharmacies. Age, sex, country of origin, visits, date of entry in the regional health system, generic drugs and active ingredients were considered. Statistical analysis expressed the percentage of persons exposed to antidepressants stratified by age, gender, and country of origin and prevalence ratios of antidepressant exposition were calculated.Results: Antidepressants were dispensed to 11% of native population and 2.6% of immigrants. Depending on age, native women were prescribed antidepressants between 1.9 and 2.7 times more than immigrant women, and native men 2.5 and 3.1 times more than their immigrant counterparts. Among immigrant females, the highest rate was found in the Latin Americans (6.6%) and the lowest in the sub-Saharans (1.4%). Among males, the highest use was also found in the Latin Americans (1.6%) and the lowest in the sub-Saharans (0.7%). The percentage of immigrants prescribed antidepressants increased significantly in relation to the number of years registered with the local health system. Significant differences were found for the new antidepressants, prescribed 8% more in the native population than in immigrants, both in men and in women.Conclusions: All the immigrants, regardless of the country of origin, had lower antidepressant consumption than the native population of the same age and sex. Latin American women presented the highest levels of consumption, and the sub-Saharan men the lowest. The prescription profiles also differed, since immigrants consumed more generics and fewer recently commercialized active ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although there are many studies about central venous catheter-related infection, we have not found any analysis of the incidence of internal jugular venous catheter-related bacteremia associated with different accesses.Objective: The objective of this study was to test whether the position of the internal jugular venous catheter, central or posterior, influences the incidence of bacteremia.Design: A cohort study.Setting: A 12-bed polyvalent medical-surgical intensive care unit (ICU).Patients: Patients admitted to ICU between 1 May 2000 and 30 April 2004 who received one or more internal jugular venous catheters.Measurements and Results: A total of 1,483 patients were admitted to the polyvalent ICU, of whom 1,311 underwent central venous catheterization. A total of 547 patients received 684 internal jugular venous catheters, 169 by posterior and 515 by central access. There were no significant differences between central and posterior access patients in sex, age, APACHE II (14.1 +/- 5.0 vs. 13.9 +/- 5.2, p = 0.40), diagnosis, order of catheter insertion, use of mechanical ventilation, use of antimicrobials, use of total parenteral nutrition or use of pulmonary artery catheter. We found a higher incidence of internal jugular venous catheter-related bacteremia with central (4.8 per 1000 catheter-day) than with posterior (1.2 per 1000 catheter-day) access (odds ratio 3.9; 95% confidence interval 1.1-infinite; p = 0.03).Conclusion: Posterior access has a lower incidence of internal jugular venous catheter-related bacteremia than central access in non-severely ill patients (according to the low APACHE II score values of the study patients). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To estimate the economic burden of migraine in Spain, from the societal perspective.Methods: The Spanish 2001 annual direct (pharmacy, primary care, specialist and emergency room visits) and indirect (missed workdays and reduced work performance) costs were calculated using the prevalence approach. The human-capital method was used to calculate indirect costs. The sources used were published epidemiological and resource use studies using the International Headache Society diagnostic criteria from official and unofficial databases.Results: The Spanish population with migraine was estimated to be 3,617,600 patients, 92.5% being of a working age. The economic burden of migraine was about euro 1076 million. The direct costs represented only 32.0% of the total burden (euro 344 million), 39.2% being for primary care visits, 28.7% for specialist visits, 20.5% for emergency room visits and a further 11.7% for migraine-specific prescription drugs (serotonin 5-HT(1B/1D) receptor agonists [triptans] 10.8%, ergots 0.9%). The indirect cost was estimated at euro 732 million annually, representing euro 453.55 per working patient with migraine.Conclusions: As in many other developed countries, migraine represents a considerable economic burden in Spain, especially in terms of productivity losses. Therefore, activities should be specifically directed at reducing the indirect costs, and effective treatments, which significantly reduce productivity losses, should be publicly promoted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The Odiel watershed drains materials belonging to the Iberian Pyrite Belt, where significant massive sulfide deposits have been mined historically. As a result, a huge amount of sulfide-rich wastes are deposited in the watershed, which suffer from oxidation, releasing acidic lixiviates with high sulfate and metal concentrations. In order to reliably estimate the metal loadings along the watershed a complete series of discharge and hydrochemical data are essential. A hydrological model was performed with SWAT (Soil and Water Assessment Tool) to solve the scarcity of gauge stations along the watershed. The model was calibrated and validated from daily discharge data (from 1980 to 2010) at the outlet of the watershed, river inputs into an existent reservoir, and a flow gauge station close to the northern area of the watershed. Discharge data obtained from the hydrological model, together with analytical data, allowed the estimation of the dissolved pollutant load delivered annually by the Odiel River (e.g. 9140 t of Al, 2760 t of Zn). The pollutant load is influenced strongly by the rainfall regime, and can even double during extremely rainy years. Around 50% of total pollution comes from the Riotinto Mining District, so the treatment of Riotinto lixiviates reaching the Odiel watershed would reduce the AMD (Acid Mine Drainages) in a remarkable way, improving the water quality downstream, especially in the reservoir of Alcolea, currently under construction. The information obtained in this study will allow the optimization of remediation efforts in the watershed, in order to improve its water quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims To identify factors predicting long-term relapse to smoking in people attending smoking treatment services who have maintained at least 1 year abstinence. Design Observational, prospective study with multiple logistic regression used to model predictors of relapse between 1 and 10 years from cessation using variables measured pre-cessation. Setting and participants Among smokers receiving behavioural support for cessation in a clinic in Spain, in some cases with nicotine patches or bupropion, 366 had remained abstinent after 1 year of follow-up and were included into the study. Measurements Predictive measures (disease history, psychological disorder, age of starting smoking, years of smoking, cigarette dependence and smoking cessation treatment used) were obtained at the time of the quit attempt, and 'failure' (defined as reported smoking, loss to follow-up, died or an expired air carbon monoxide reading of > 5 parts per million) was assessed 10 years later. Findings At follow-up, abstinence status was confirmed in 50.5% ( n = 185) of participants, while 21.0% ( n = 77) reported that they had resumed smoking, and 28.5% ( n = 104) were lost to follow-up (also counted as having resumed smoking). In the multiple regression model, the main factor that predicted relapse had a psychological disorder (odds ratio = 1.85, 95% confidence interval = 1.13-3.05; P < 0.02). Conclusions Having a psychological disorder at the time of stopping smoking is a risk factor for relapse to smoking, even after more than 1 year of abstinence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The risk of exacerbation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) depends on the severity of disease and other less well known factors. Predictive models of exacerbation are more accurate than the forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). The objective was to design a model that predicts the risk of exacerbation in COPD. Methods: Retrospective cohort study with data from the electronic medical records of patients diagnosed with COPD in the province of Lleida (Spain). A total of 2501 patients were followed during 3 years. The dependent variable was acute exacerbation; independent variables were: clinical parameters, spirometry results, severity of disease, influenza and 23-valent pneumococcal immunisation, comorbidities, smoking and history of exacerbation. The association of these variables with disease exacerbation was measured by the adjusted odds ratio using a logistic regression model. Results: Mean age at the start of the study was 68.38 years (SD = 11.60) and 74.97 % patients were men; severity of disease was considered mild in 50.82 % of patients, moderate in 35.31 %, severe in 9.44 % and very severe in 4.44 %. During the three year study period up to 83.17 % of patients experienced at least one exacerbation. Predictive factors in the model were age, gender, previous exacerbations, influenza and 23-valent pneumococcal immunisations, number of previous visits to the General Practice and severity (GOLD), with an area under the ROC curve (AUROC) of 0.70. Conclusions: This model can identify patients at high risk of acute exacerbation. Preventive measures and modification of treatment in these high-risk patients would improve survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Broadly speaking, the teaching of spoken language in Spanish schools has not been approached in a systematic way. Changes in school practices are needed in order to allow all children to become competent speakers and to understand and construct oral texts that are appropriate in different contexts and for different audiences both inside and outside school. Here we describe the construction of EVALOE (‘Escala de valoración de la enseñanza de la lengua oral en contexto escolar’ [Assessment scale of oral language teaching]), a flexible tool designed to assess the teaching and learning of spoken language in schools. The first part of the tool is an observation scale (for use in the classroom), and the second is a semi-structured interview carried out with the teacher after the observation. The instrument is designed to assess how teachers facilitate the development of spoken language. It also aims to further interdisciplinary collaboration with regard to the introduction of changes in teaching practices in order to promote the development of communication friendly classroom environments. A pilot test and expert review of the tool was carried out. Thirty-nine schools then participated in the field test, which involved 39 professionals (23 speech and language therapists, eight educational psychologists, and eight teachers) and two university students. Eighty observations, 34 in a preschool setting and 46 in primary schools, were carried out. The results suggest that EVALOE is a useful tool for assessing the teaching and learning of spoken language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Lung cancer accounts for 20 % of cancer deaths in Spain. The most frequent subtype (87 %) is non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Pemetrexed is a recently marketed drug added to NSCLC therapeutic arsenal. It seems to have become one of the most used options for the treatment of this condition over the last 3 years. Aim of the review To evaluate the efficacy and safety of pemetrexed in NSCLC, in the different therapy lines. Method A systematic search of published literature was conducted using the main databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and the Center for Reviews and Dissemination) and subsequently a search of referenced literature was performed. We included clinical trials, meta-analyses and systematic reviews. The evaluation of the quality of the articles was performed by pairs using specific assessment scales, Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) adapted for CASP Spain. Then we extracted data on efficacy and safety according to the treatment line assessed. Results We identified 277 references. Finally, nine clinical trials and a meta-analysis complied with inclusion criteria. In first-line induction, treatment with pemetrexed associated with a platinum was similar in terms of efficacy to other alternative chemotherapy regimens, except in patients with non-squamous histology, in whom survival was higher in the experimental group. In maintenance treatment, greater efficacy was seen with pemetrexed in patients with non-squamous histology. In second-line treatment, there were no significant differences in terms of efficacy and safety for pemetrexed treatment versus other chemotherapy options. The most frequent adverse reactions were: hematological, gastrointestinal and neurological. All were significantly less frequent with pemetrexed versus other alternative therapies, except for liver toxicity. Conclusions Due to the high degree of uncertainty as to its efficacy in certain subgroups of patients, including conflicting data; to its recent incorporation, and therefore lack of safety data in the medium and long term, and the high budgetary impact of its incorporation into health systems, it seems reasonable to optimize its use, identifying those patients who may benefit most. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microsporidia are ubiquitous parasites infecting all animal phyla and we present evidence that supports their zoonotic potential. Fecal samples taken from domestic (cats and dogs), farm (pigs, rabbits and ostriches) and wild animals (foxes) from different provinces of Spain were evaluated for microsporidia infection by light microscopy and PCR. After Microsporidia species identification, E. bieneusi genotypes were additionally studied by sequence analysis of the ITS region. Eighty-five samples out of 159 exhibited structures that were compatible with microsporidia spores by Webeŕs stain with 37 of them being confirmed by PCR. Microsporidia species identified included E. bieneusi, E. intestinalis and A. algerae. We report the first diagnosis of E. intestinalis and E. bieneusi in ostriches and A. algerae in pigs. We also provide new information on the molecular characterization of E. bieneusi isolates both in rabbits and ostriches. All of the E. bieneusi genotypes identified belonged to the zoonotic group of genotypes (Group I) including genotypes A (dogs), I (pigs), D (rabbits and foxes) and type IV (ostriches). Our results demonstrate that microsporidia are present in domestic, farm and wild animals in Spain, corroborating their potential role as a source of human infection and environmental contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A year-long longitudinal study was undertaken to evaluate the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. in drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs), wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and freshwater bathing beaches (FBBs) from the central area of Spain. Water samples were collected according to USEPA Method 1623, and concentrated by the IDEXX Filta-Max® system. Cryptosporidium species were detected based on PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism and sequence analyses of the ssuRNA gene. C. hominis and/or C. parvum isolates were subtyped by DNA sequencing of the Gp60 gene. Among 150 samples, 23 (15.3%) were positive by IFAT and 40 (26.7%) by PCR. Cryptosporidium spp. was more frequent in WWTPs (26.2 and 50.8%) and FBBs (12.5 and 17.5%) by IFAT and PCR respectively. Effluent waters from DWTPs were negative for this parasite suggesting that they are suitable for public use. Tertiary treatment in the WWTPs demonstrated a high removal efficiency of Cryptosporidium in the samples evaluated. Cryptosporidium species identified included C. hominis, C. parvum, C. ubiquitum, C. andersoni and C. muris. Subtyping analysis revealed C. hominis IbA10G2 and IeA11G3T3 alleles, which is the first report of the latter in water samples. Cryptosporidium highest frequency was observed in winter and spring. Our data provide information about the occurrence and diversity of Cryptosporidium in water of human use from the central area of Spain. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The abandoned mining districts of the Iberian Pyrite Belt (IPB, SW Spain) are an extreme source of pollution by acid mine drainage (AMD) to the Tinto and Odiel rivers. The pollutant flux transported by the Odiel River during a high stage period was assessed using concentration–discharge relationships and concentration–conductivity relationships, for the hydrological year 2009/10 (which was especially wet). Both correlations were high (R2 >0.80) for most of the elements studied. The two methods for flux calculation gave similar results with differences generally lower than 10%. The dissolved contaminant flux transported by the Odiel River just before its mouth mainly includes sulphate (257,534±13,464t/yr), Al (13,259±1071t/yr), Zn (4265±242t/yr), Mn (2532±146t/yr) and Cu (1738±136t/yr), and minor amounts of other elements. These findings confirm that, up to our knowledge, the Odiel River can be considered to be the largest contributor of mining-related pollutants to the world's oceans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies report that immigrants underuse psychiatric hospitalization services and are less exposed to antipsychotic medication. The objective of this study is to determine whether immigrant and Spanish native groups with psychotic disorder adhere differently to antipsychotic drugs. Retrospective study including two matched samples of 47 immigrants and 47 native-born patients with psychotic disorder admitted to a psychiatric Unit (2006-2007). Adherence was measured after one-year follow-up. Only 30 % of patients adhered to treatment (40.4 % of native-born, and 19.1 % of immigrants). The lowest rate of adherence was found in sub-Saharans. Fifty per cent of non-adherents were readmitted after 12 months, compared with 21.4 % of adherents, the effect was observed in both native and immigrants. This alarmingly poor adherence in immigrant patients with psychosis underlines the need for preventive strategies to minimize the negative clinical, social and economic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alberto Campo Baeza's work focuses on the exploration of the fundamentals of architecture from the self-restraint and wisdom that experience can provide. However, despite being one of the most renowned Spanish architects, he keeps working in domestic as well as institutional projects. Probably, the reason is that he finds in the houses a field of experimentation at a small scale that allows him to put his ideas into practice later on in major works. In all likelihood, the explanation is that, in the house. Campo Baeza identifies the keys of human dwelling, and he develops them from the usual typologies: the cave, the cabin and the courtyard house. Creating dreamed houses is not an easy thing to do, specially when one dreams them for other people. Nevertheless, the artistic career of this architect has proved that dreams sometimes come true. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The accurate estimation of metal loads transported by streams is necessary to calculate reliable mass transfers of metals between compartments, both at local and global scales. This estimation is particularly relevant in the case of the Tinto and Odiel Rivers (SW Spain) due to their significant contribution to the total metal transfer from continents to the ocean. At a local scale, the metal load transported by streams plays a key role in predicting the biogeochemical evolution of water reservoirs affected by Acid Mine Drainage (AMD). This work uses the relationships between specific conductivity (SC) and dissolved elements to calculate the metal load of the River Meca, a tributary of the Odiel. The SC and the water level were continuously monitored from April 2009 to June 2010. Water samples were also collected and measurements of the discharge were carried out manually once a month. The relationships between the SC and the concentration of dissolved elements are, in general, very good (R 2 >0.90). However, some key elements such as Fe show a very poor correlation. A simple methodology based on the MIX code (a maximum likelihood method to estimate mixing ratios) was used to elucidate their different behaviours. During the dry period (April–December, 2009) the Fe concentration was lower than that deduced from the SC recorded value due to the precipitation of Fe-oxihydroxides, which also reduced the concentrations of As, Cr, Pb and, to a lesser extent, Cu. At the same time Na, Sr, Ca and Li were enriched because of the higher interaction with the riverbed materials. Correlations between the SC and the metal concentration improved significantly when each period was considered separately. A second dry period (April–June 2010) shows high SC values, although no dissolution/precipitation of solid phases is evidenced. This indicates that SC alone is not enough to predict the dissolved metal loads in Mediterranean AMD streams. The metal load transported by the River Meca was determined for the hydrological year 2009/10 as 1933±129 tonnes of Fe, 990±155 of Al and 378±41 of Zn. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We have studied in this work the natural variability in Holm oak ( Quercus ilex subsp. ballota) by analyzing acorn morphometry and chemical composition in 13 populations from the Andalusia region (southern Spain). Acorn morphometry showed statistic significant differences between the populations with a higher acorn weight, length, and diameter in the northern provenances (TJA, GSE, CTH, CHU, APS, and PCO), while the Southern provenances (RMA, SAA, CCO, BCA, and SCA) showed lower value that even decreased with the altitude. Acorn chemical composition also showed statistic significant differences between populations. Morphometry and chemical composition data were subjected to clustering analysis, and two major clusters were detected. This analysis showed that northern populations (CTH, TJA, SCA, CHU, PCO, GSE, and APS) showed a tendency to present values highest in acorn weight (5.42 g vs. 3.21 g); acorn length (37.21 mm vs. 28.73 mm); acorn diameter (16.12 mm vs. 13.79 mm); ash (1.88% vs. 1.55%); protein (4.82% vs. 4.38%); fat (12.55% vs. 9.92%); and oleic acid (66.93 vs. 66.4%). On the contrary, Southern populations (SSA, VJA, CCO, BCA, RG, and RMA) showed a tendency to present values lowest in sugar (10.28% vs. 11.25%); energy (20,076.71 kJ/kg vs. 20,149.26 kJ/kg); palmitic (16.11% vs. 16.39%) and linoleic acids (13.07% vs. 13.11%). The populations studied here seemed to integrate acorn morphology and chemical composition related to environmental conditions of the original provenances. These data have provided biochemical markers that help establish phylogenic associations between populations and also reveal potentially account as an alternative source for dietary nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An understanding of pollutant processes in rivers under different hydrological conditions is essential to assess its long-term evolution. This is especially relevant in Mediterranean rivers during rain events, when most of the water, suspended particulate matter (SPM), and pollutants are delivered. This study investigates the hydrochemical changes and pollutant fluxes in the Odiel River (SW Spain) during rainy conditions. For this purpose, high-resolution sampling (6 h) was performed to monitor dissolved and total concentrations of pollutants. During the rises in discharge, most dissolved elements had decreased concentrations due to the dilution effect of runoff waters and Fe precipitation processes. However, the particulate concentrations of some elements (As, Fe, Pb, Cr, Ti, V, and Ba) increased due to Fe-rich sediment remobilization, and to a lesser extent, direct precipitation. A two end-member mixing model applied to the collected data showed that the contribution of nonaffected waters was ∼85%-98% of the total discharge, highlighting the importance of mining lixiviates in the deterioration of Odiel water quality. An innovative methodology was applied to estimate dissolved and total pollutant loads, based on the relationships between dissolved concentrations and electrical conductivity (EC), and total concentrations and river flow. The importance of particulate metal transport during rain events in the Odiel River was significant. The total transport of Fe was 37 times higher than dissolved Fe, was almost 7 times higher for Pb, and 5 times higher for Cr, while As (1.1 t) was totally transported by particulate matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1998, the Agrio and Guadiamar rivers underwent an enormous environmental disaster caused by the rupture of the Aznalcóllar tailings dam and the release of 6 hm of pyrite sludge and acidic water. Both rivers run over recent alluvial materials which form a small-sized aquifer which is however important because underground water feeds the flow of the rivers. This work analyzes the state of groundwater 10 years after the spill. Before the dam failure, this aquifer was already contaminated in the zone nearest to the mine, to which the impact of the spill was added. Contamination levels in the alluvial aquifer of the Agrio River have decreased remarkably. However, they are still important, with acidic pH values and high concentrations of toxic elements (maximum values of 16 mg/L of Zn and 15 mg/L of Al). There are also important levels of contamination in the Guadiamar alluvial area closest to the mine, as well as in specific zones located further south. The concentration of toxic elements is mainly controlled by pH. The evolution of contaminant levels show a sharp decrease after the first years following the spill, followed by a subsequent stabilization. It is necessary to take measures for the recovery of the aquifer because, otherwise, groundwater will continue contributing contaminants into the Agrio and Guadiamar rivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On 26 November 2009, a 3-year old girl, Aitana, died in Arona, Tenerife. The cause of her death according to the medical report pointed towards the existence of various polytraumas caused by physical abuse, together with vaginal and anal injuries. Diego Pastrana, the mother's partner, was arrested. He told the Guardia Civil officers that the injuries were the result of an accident in a children's playground a few days before. An official press release announced that he had been charged. Simultaneous trials - the real trial and the trial by media - began immediately. As Diego appeared in handcuffs, journalists en masse clamoured to deplore the events and condemn the accused. The public authorities of the Canary Islands added their own high-sounding declarations of disgust. Four days later, the autopsy ruled out the presumed and, as it turned out, erroneous cause of death. Diego, who suffers from depression, was admitted to hospital. He left the Canary Islands some days later. Some members of the media, the minority, put their own behaviour under the microscope; a few journalists apologised. That was about the extent of it. The law and journalistic ethics share the same view of how news coverage of this type of story should be approached. Nevertheless, the ease with which a reporter can distort reality is a serious cause for concern. This case-study of Spanish newspapers will thus enable us to identify potential and probable failures in news reporting from multiple perspectives: improper use of journalistic categories (news, opinion and interpretation), insufficient checking of news sources, imprecise style, tone and sensationalist headlines, flaws in structuring the message and inadequate used of images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passive woodland regeneration following cropland abandonment and pine plantations are two major approaches for vegetation restoration in agricultural landscapes in the Mediterranean Basin. We compared the effects of these two contrasting approaches on local bird density in central Spain on the basis of species characteristics, including regional density, habitat breadth, life-history traits and plumage colouration. Local bird density increased with regional density and habitat breadth in both woodland and pine plantation plots following macroecological patterns of bird abundance and distribution. In woodlands, dichromatic species were more abundant than monochromatic species and bird density increased with the intensity of territory defense and as the proportion of plumage colour generated by pheomelanin decreased. Contrary to our prediction, this latter observation suggests that woodlands may induce higher levels of physiological stress in birds than pine plantations even though these represent a novel habitat change. In pine plantations, sedentary species were more abundant than migratory species and bird density was negatively related to body and egg mass. These traits of bird species in pine plantations are characteristic of successful invaders. The variation in bird density explained by phylogeny was twice as high in pine plantations as in woodlands, suggesting that pine plantations limit accessibility to some clades. Our results support, from an evolutionary perspective, the described inability of pine plantations on cropland to maintain or increase bird diversity in Mediterranean agricultural landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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